Ask Our Expert - Wearing a Belly Button Ring during Pregnancy

November 08, 2009

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Specializing in pregnancy and birth.


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Ask Dr. Greenfield Wearing a Belly Button Ring during Pregnancy

QUESTION


Dear Dr. Greenfield, Although this is the least of my worries at this time... I still would like to know if you would recommend me to remove my navel ring as we begin our pregnancy. I just finished reading a segment on the belly button and how it eventually pops out. Does this happen to everyone? I am 5'8" and weigh 130 lbs and this is my first pregnancy so I may not show as most would. I will be 20 when we have our little blessing and have heard that more fit women will not show as much. Thank you for your concern. — Liesel in Wyomissing, Pa

ANSWER	June 12, 2001


Dear Liesel, There is no automatic medical reason for you to remove your belly button ring during pregnancy. Most women do have changes of the belly button late in pregnancy, even women who are thin and fit--it kind of flattens out. While you may find that the ring gets uncomfortable as your tummy grows, you can always take it out later on if it bothers you. You also may want to ask your doctor or midwife what her policy is on this issue. Some practitioners request that you remove the ring temporarily during labor. While many women feel beautiful during pregnancy, it can be an assault to one's body image. Holding on to those things that you enjoyed before pregnancy can help you remember who you are outside of your new role as mom-to-be. So if you want to keep the ring as part of your old identity, enjoy. You can respond to your body's changes if and when it becomes necessary. — by Marjorie Greenfield, M.D.

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